Burn Bans

Drought

Monthly Change in Drought Monitor Classification

Drought still burns Texas -- Texas is still suffering from the drought and is 76 million acre-feet (amount of water needed to fill one acre of land to a depth of one foot) below the average from the first part of the last century. Palestine Herald-Press, John Austin, February 2, 2015

Drought Easing but SAWS Remains Cautious -- Bexar County had completely come out of the drought, except for a small part along the Medina County line, due to the excess rain received since the beginning of January. Even though these five weeks of rain have been good for the county, it will still need more rain in order to have continued improvement, and their Aquifers have come up a bit.News Radio WOAI, Staff Writer, February 3, 2015

Drought summit offers help to organic farmers -- Drought impacts are particularly bad for small and organic farmers across the state. The Drought Summit has the goal of aiding these farmers by bringing them closer to federal programs. These programs would include things such as crop insurance and emergency loans. Midland Reporter-Telegram, Eva Hershaw, February 4, 2015

Dallas may not break drought this spring -- Spring typically means the opportunity for drought-alleviating rain, but the long-range forecast for this upcoming spring predicts a drier than normal spring for North Texas. This means drought relief is further from reach for the northern part of the state. Dallas News, Michael Young, February 6, 2015

San Marcos looks at weakening drought restrictions -- The San Marcos City Council is looking to reduce drought restrictions, which would allow the citizens to use more water. Since the city gets most of its water from Canyon Lake that is 77 percent full, officials believe that lowering the restrictions won’t cause any harm.KVUE, Eleanor Beck, February 6, 2015

Hale County finally out of drought status -- After four years of being in some drought category, Hale County is finally out of it. A big portion of the southwestern part of the county now has normal soil moisture conditions and the northeastern part of it is now in the abnormally dry category.The Plainview Daily Herald, Doug McDonough, February 9, 2015

January Precipitation Helping Area Farmers Ahead of Upcoming Season -- A report from the Texas Water Development Board found that Lubbock’s drought condition is improving due to the recent rain. This is much better than what it has been for the past few years since more moisture is present.KLBK, Monica Yantosh, February 10, 2015

Palo Pinto County among 98 drought counties in Texas -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture stated that 98 counties in Texas are primary natural disaster areas due to the amount of damages and crop losses due to drought conditions. This allowed for qualified farms to be eligible for emergency loans from the USDA. There are even programs to get emergency assistance for the livestock.Mineral Wells Index, Staff Writer, February 10, 2015

LCRA: Current drought worst on record for Central Texas -- The drought impact on Highland Lakes is the worst that has been experienced since the lakes were created back in the 1930s. LCRA data shows that the lakes are in a critical period since they are drier than the drought back in 1947-1957, which was previously the worst drought on record. This has big implications because it could mean cutting off water for certain customers and issuing water restrictions.KXAN News, February 18, 2015

Water Supply

Lake at Ascarate Park to get new well -- Many constant visitors of the Ascarate Park noticed that the lake levels were lower than they were in the past. Hopefully the new well will help get the lake levels back to normal. KTSM, Janice Yu, February 2, 2015

City of Amarillo uses winter months to extend life of treatment plant -- The Capital Improvements Plan is giving the Osage Water Treatment Plant money in order to lengthen the life of their plant by 40-50 years. KVII, Drew Powell, February 3, 2015

Legislation could define management of brackish water -- A House Bill filed by a state representative would charge the Texas Water Development Board for modeling aquifers to determine if brackish water is feasible without harming the state’s supply of freshwater. This would greatly benefit groundwater districts and it will protect the current water users of the districts.Victoria Advocate, Sara Sneath, February 8, 2015

Water experts meet to discuss ways to conserve water in central Texas -- Austin was the meeting place for water experts to discuss water conservation programs from around the country. The main goals were to look at ways to connect to the customers concerning water consumption through social media and promote conservation.KXAN, Rosie Newberry, February 11, 2015

North Texas Municipal Water District to dredge reservoir -- The NTMWD planned on dredging two areas of a reservoir due to the drought conditions. Experts reported that dredging Lavon Lake would increase water deliveries up to 7.2 million gallons daily. This project is expected to cost nearly $2 million.The Washington Times, Staff Writer, February 16, 2015

Henderson rainfall 2.99 inches above normal -- Thanks to a winter storm, Henderson was able to pick up 1.79 inches of liquid equivalent snow. This put the total rainfall for Henderson in 2015 at 9.21 inches which is 2.99 inches above normal.Henderson Daily News, Staff Writer, February 17, 2015

Despite rains, many Texas reservoirs lower this year than last -- Even though drought conditions have been reduced in some parts of the state, the reservoirs are still feeling the effect. Reservoirs out in East Texas are good, but in the Central portion of the state there are some low reservoir levels. This is because the rainfall wasn’t evenly distributed across the state, so for some it helps and others have still not seen nearly enough rain. Ag Professional, Blair Fannin, February 19, 2015

Wildfire

Wildfires erupt in county -- Abnormally dry conditions combined with unseasonably warm temperatures created conditions for a few grass fires around the Denton area to occur. None of the fires caused major damage or injuries.Denton Record-Chronicle, Staff Writer, February 9, 2015

Agriculture

Soil moisture slowly improving -- Hale and Swisher counties now have adequate moisture in the first six inches of their soil, but the subsoil is still deficient. The sufficient amount of soil moisture boosted the performance of wheat crops, and farmers are hoping they will continue to receive moisture through spring. Even with the lower than normal soil moisture, the conditions are the best they have been since the beginning of the drought that started in November 2010.The Plainview Daily Herald, Doug McDonough, February 3, 2015

Texas crop, weather -- Crops, especially the cool season oilseed crops like wheat are thriving. The wheat crop is doing much better than it did in 2014. Canola has the most favorable outlook this season, and is expecting to have over 20,000 acres of canola insured for the current crop.AgriLife Today, Robert Burns, February 3, 2015

East Texans gearing up for sand bass fishing -- The rainfall that East Texas received has made conditions favorable for sand bass to start moving into the rivers. Fishermen believe that these conditions should make for a reasonable amount of fish to move down from Lake Palestine. KETK, February 4, 2015

Texas cattle sees first rebound from drought -- After eight years of consecutive decline of cattle herd due to drought conditions, there was finally an increase last year. Cattle inventory hit a 48-year record low in 2014 but has now increased by six percent. With the rain in 2014, grass could be grown easier and hay became cheaper which supports more cattle life. The Houston Chronicle, Dylan Baddour, February 5, 2015

Agriculture experts look at conserving water in the Panhandle -- Residents and Farmers of Amarillo met to discuss the future of the water supply in the Panhandle. Topics on how to save water for agriculture, alternate crops, and new technologies were discussed. The most important source of water for the Panhandle is the Ogallala Aquifer.KVII, Steven Graves, February 7, 2015

Texas agriculture report -- At this point in the month, the High and Low Plains of the state received an inch or more of rain. Winter wheat is doing well throughout the state and pecans did well in the Cross Timbers. Dairy production is up 2% from the summer months. The South Plains look much better for crop growing than the Panhandle, where soil moisture is short to adequate.The Lubbock Avalanche Journal, Staff Writer, February 8, 2015

Snow geese still hanging around -- A year ago, there were less than 200,000 snow geese in Texas. This time around there were more than 420,000 snow geese spotted within the state. This could be due to the colder and wetter conditions in the winter.The Victoria Advocate, February 8, 2015

Farmers could be growing more sorghum, less cotton -- The National Cotton Council came out with survey results that showed that there will be a large reduction in cotton nationwide due to the cold winter. Cotton acreage is down 14 percent from 2014. Instead of growing cotton, many farmers have turned to grain sorghum.The Plainview Daily Herald, Robert Burns, February 10, 2015

Sweet onion markets weakened by big storage crop -- The weather for growing sweet onions in Texas is pretty good this month due to the growing regions not having any significant freezes. However, the acreage is expected to be down from last year which is following a downward trend.The Packer, Andy Nelson, February 10, 2015

Spring planting needs to wait a little longer -- Even though temperatures are warm for this time of the year, that doesn’t mean that Spring-time is here. The cold weather is not over with yet so experts are saying to not plant any warm weather vegetables. It is recommended to not start until March 10th.KVUE, Lynae Miyer, February 11, 2015

Late winter can be hog heaven for hunters -- Hunters say that in the late winter, just before spring, is when feral hogs are the most vulnerable. Hunting and trapping is more likely to be successful during this time of the year. This is caused by the effect that winter has on vegetation because the hogs have nowhere to hide.The Houston Chronicle, Shannon Tompkins, February 11, 2015

Finishing of Panhandle cotton harvest delayed by wet, damp weather -- Cotton harvesting has been delayed due to the recent rounds of precipitation across the Panhandle. Cotton is hard to harvest when it is wet, so conditions must be favorable in order to complete the task.High Plains/Midwest Ag Journal, Robert Burns, February 14, 2015

Mild winter helping this season’s crops -- A milder winter is helping some farmers out. One farmer stated that he has the best quality crops including carrots, radishes, and cauliflower. Since there hasn’t been many freezes and no ice this year, it has allowed for winter crops to really thrive.KVUE, Lynae Miyer, February 16, 2015

Inclement Weather

Cold/Winter Weather

Winter temperatures are back in North Texas -- The groundhog predicted more wintery months, and the forecast predicts the rest of the week being slightly warmer than the beginning of the week. Overall, though, it was still cold with highs in the mid 50s to low 60s. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Domingo Ramirez Jr., February 2, 2015

Major weather changes for 2nd half of February -- Going from unseasonably warm temperatures back to more wintertime temperatures in East Texas. A cold front passed through and dropped temperatures into the 30s and also brought along some snow!KETK, Meteorologist Marcus Bagwell, February 12, 2015

Freezing rain, snow coming to North Texas -- A strong cold front carries along with it a chance of wintry precipitation for North Texas. Bridges and overpasses are the main concern for icing over. North Texas will take any moisture they can get in order to get some short term drought relief. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Domingo Ramirez Jr., February 13, 2015

Slight chance of sleet, snow overnight -- Across Central Texas, there was the possibility of wintry precipitation to fall thanks to a cold front that dropped temperatures nearly 20 degrees throughout the day. Anything frozen that fell from the skies was not expected to stick due to the ground temperature being well above freezing for a long period of time prior to the event.The Austin American-Statesman, Philip Jankowski, February 16, 2015

Near freezing temperatures expected in South Texas -- All the way down in South Texas, temperatures are expected to drop near freezing or below. Cities from Bee to Victoria counties could see temperatures drop to below freezing for less than two hours. In the Rio Grande plains temperatures are expected to stay a little bit above freezing.Laredo Morning Times, Staff Writer, February 17, 2015

Chilly morning, warm and sunny afternoon for Central Texas -- The low temperature at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport tied the record low temperature for the day which was 25 back in 2007. Temperatures are expected to warm up into the mid to upper 60s thanks to plentiful sunshine.The Austin American-Statesman, Nicole Chavez, February 18, 2015

National Weather Service warns, early, that freezing rain and sleet accumulations possible with coming front -- The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Watch well in advance of an impending winter storm. Ice accumulations of up to half an inch is expected to make roadways dangerous to drive on. Expect many cancellations of schools and businesses when the storm moves in. The Dallas Morning News, Robert Wilonsky, February 20, 2015

Winter weather to impact South Plains Sunday -- With the incoming cold front and winter storm, some wintry weather could make its way into Lubbock. Freezing rain, sleet, and light snow are expected as the cold air settles in and moisture lingers around. Icy conditions on roadways could be a concern for the morning hours. KTRE, Cutter Martin, February 21, 2015

Forecasters increase sleet accumulation estimate -- With the winter storm getting closer, forecasters are saying that there could be more sleet than previously predicted. Estimates are now up to an inch of sleet accumulation with up to two inches in some locations. Roads will be very dangerous to drive on during these conditions.WFAA, Staff Writer, February 22, 2015

Freezing Rain & Winter Weather Advisories in Effect for the Brazos Valley -- The potential for winter weather seeped down into portions of Southeast Texas which prompted the National Weather Service to issue a Freezing Rain Advisory and a Winter Weather Advisory for the Brazos Valley. Bridges and overpasses were a concern for possible icy conditions in the morning hours.KBTX, Weather Team, February 23, 2015

New Winter Storm May Bring Snow Tuesday Night -- Winter is far from over for Texas. Another winter storm is expected to make a big impact in North Texas, possibly dropping 3 inches of snow. This means that road conditions will still be incredibly dangerous, and schools and businesses are likely to remain closed.NBC DFW, Frank Heinz, February 24, 2015

Some Texans get Winter treat, with dusting of snow -- The winter weather reached all the way down to Huntsville where there was a dusting of snow. Sam Houston State University got in on the snowfall as well. No accumulations were reported since as soon as the snow hit the ground, it melted. ABC News, Foti Kallergis, February 24, 2015

Texarkana police investigate possible cold weather death -- In East Texas, a woman was found dead at a homeless camp. She was found by other residents of the camp in the early morning hours. Police believe that the cold temperatures may have been the cause of her death. WAFB, KSLA Staff, February 25, 2015

Thousands without power in East Texas -- Electric companies reported that over 20,000 customers were without power due to the wintry weather that moved through the area. East Texas reported nearly 2-4 inches for the day with this storm. The Tyler Morning Telegraph, Melissa McTee, February 25, 2015

Longview prepares for another winter onslaught -- As another winter storm is on the doorsteps of Longview, shelters began to fill up and roadway treatment went underway. Road crews treated several bridges and overpasses in preparation for the event, and one shelter worker stated that the emergency shelter for men went from 70 people to 102 people in one day. For upcoming events like this, the shelter activates a life-threatening policy so that they can take in more people that normally would not be allowed. The Longview News-Journal, Richard Yeakley, February 25, 2015

Winter weather hits Hunt County -- In Hunt County, winter weather found its way back to the area. Most of the schools delayed for two hours while snow was falling. Snowfall totals for the county were between one and three inches. Roadways were a problem at the beginning of the day but as temperatures warmed, everything began melting.The Commerce Journal, Brad Keller, February 26, 2015

Chances of snow fall flat in S.A.; North Texas slammed by cold weather -- While the northern portion of Texas is dealing with an abundance of snowfall, areas near San Antonio were dealing with icy conditions as freezing drizzle fell throughout majority of the night. Bridges and overpasses, especially on I-35 and U.S. 90 were a big concern.San Antonio Express-News, Mark D. Wilson, February 27, 2015

Severe Weather

3.1 magnitude quake hits Amarillo -- Amarillo is no stranger to some earthquakes, and this one hit on Super Bowl Sunday and was felt for a few seconds from the National Weather Service at the Rick Husband International Airport.Amarillo Globe-News, Amanda Castro-Crist, February 1, 2015

USGS Confirms Earthquake In Irving -- Irving experienced a 3.1 magnitude earthquake in the early morning hours according to the USGS. The epicenter was found to be to the east of the former site of Texas Stadium. There were no reports of injuries or damage.CBS DFW, Staff Writer, February 27, 2015

Heat

Warm weather brings more fun this weekend! -- With temperatures in the Panhandle approaching 80 degrees over a weekend, it brings the opportunity for outdoor plans. Several locations such as the Golden Light put on a concert or other types of performances for people to attend.KVII, Jeannie Nguyen, February 6, 2015

Unseasonably warm weather continues -- Temperatures in Lubbock reached into the upper 70s, which is over 20 degrees warmer than the normal for the time of the year. A cold front later on in the week dropped temperatures down to be more winter-like.KJTV, Christopher Adams, February 8, 2015

High near 80 on Monday for Central Texas -- Areas in Central Texas could see temperatures in the upper 70s which is very uncharacteristic for this time of the year. Normal temperatures should be in the low 60s. The Austin American-Statesman, Nicole Chavez, February 9, 2015

Other Climate Impacts

Academics

Texoma School Closings & Delays - February 16th, 2015 - Due to the winter weather in the area affecting roadways, several schools closed for the day. This included East Central University, Kiowa Public Schools, and Roff Public Schools.KTEN, Staff Writer, February 16, 2015

Early Closings Announced Because Of Icy Weather Threat -- Due to the threat of icy weather, some schools closed down early. These included Baylor University and Fort Hood. Coryell County offices and Limestone County Courthouse also closed early. Freezing rain is likely and road conditions are expected to deteriorate throughout the day. KWTX, Staff Writer, February 23, 2015

More school closures in North Texas during freezing weather -- Schools remained closed as another round of wintry weather moved through the Metroplex. Dallas and Fort Worth school districts canceled classes for the second straight day. However, runways at DFW Airport finally reopened after having more than 1,000 flights canceled previously. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Associated Press, February 24, 2015

Snow blankets parts of North Texas; most schools still in session -- With mostly snow falling around the Metroplex and since schools have been canceled often due to previous wintry conditions, most schools ran normal schedules or had a 2-hour delay. Compared to the icy conditions that were experienced earlier, roadways were not too hazardous.WFAA, Staff Writers, February 25, 2015

February 27 School Delays, Closings and Winter Weather Announcements -- Due to the impending winter storm, several schools either delayed or canceled classes for the day. Those among the closing were Texas Tech University, Lubbock ISD, and Harmony Science Academy. Those that were delayed included Lockney ISD, Littlefield ISD, and St. Joseph Catholic School.KFYO, Staff Writer, February 26, 2015

Roads/Traffic/Travel

Ice causes several wrecks in Sherman -- Icy conditions on the road caused 14 accidents within a 2-hour period in Sherman, Texas. Three people involved received injuries, none of which are life threatening. The constant wrecks prompted officials to issue a statement telling people to use extreme caution. , Ann Smajstria, February 5, 2015

Heavy fog causes wrecks in Calhoun County -- On U.S. Highway 87 near Port Lavaca, dense fog caused a few accidents. One victim of an accident stated that visibility was down to 20 to 30 feet at one point. There were no injuries reported with the accidents.The Victoria Advocate, Bianca Montes, February 11, 2015

Snow, cold out east put freeze on some North Texas flights -- A winter storm affecting cities in the Northeastern United States could cause delayed and canceled flights in North Texas. Southwest Airlines and American Airlines both canceled more than 100 flights in preparation.WFAA, Marie Saavedra, February 15, 2015

Winter Weather Possible, Road Crews Prepared -- Due to the impending winter storm, TxDOT in North Texas began treating roadways early in order to add grip for those that choose to drive through the icy conditions. Bridges and overpasses were the main concerns.KTAB, Staff Writer, February 15, 2015

Monday morning could see icy overpasses -- A winter storm could made for a scary ride into work in the morning if driving plans consisted of a bridge or overpass. Ice was reported on a few elevated roadways early in the morning that created treacherous conditions for drivers.The Herald Democrat, Jerrie Whiteley, February 15, 2015

Slick Roads Cause Rollover on Central Freeway -- On Central Freeway, slick roads are believed to be the cause of a rollover accident in the early morning hours. The car reportedly hit a guardrail and flipped over. The driver was not injured in the crash.KFDX, Staff Writer, February 16, 2015

Rain, freezing temperatures could cause icy roads -- TxDOT officials warned everyone that bridges and overpasses may be icy due to the left over rain on the ground and freezing temperatures moving in. TxDOT isn’t planning on treating major roads at the moment but they are on standby just in case.KYTX, Katiera Winfrey, February 16, 2015

Winter Weather Impacts Texas Air Travel -- Over 1,000 flights have been canceled at DFW Airport due to the winter weather. There were many delays as well due to the planes having to be deiced before taking off. Authorities urge passengers to call ahead to see if their flight will be canceled or delayed.CBS DFW, Stephanie Lucero, February 23, 2015

Fatal Crash in Carrollton as road conditions deteriorate -- Early in the morning hours in Carrollton on the Bush Turnpike there was a fatal crash. The driver reportedly lost control of his car and crashed into the back of an 18-wheeler that was parked on the shoulder. The driver of the 18-wheeler suffered no injuries. The Dallas Morning News, Robert Wilonsky, February 23, 2015

Plane Runs off Taxiway at D/FW International Airport -- An airplane slid off the taxiway at DFW Airport as it landed. All 68 passengers from the flight suffered no injuries. The pilot stated that as soon as the plane landed, they slid to the left and had no control over the brakes.NBC DFW, Frank Heinz, February 23, 2015

Snowy weather causes massive pile-up near Amarillo -- Nearly 40 vehicles were involved in a pile-up just outside of Amarillo after a winter storms dropped snow and ice all across the Panhandle. The pile-up occurred on I-40 and no fatalities were reported. There were a few injuries but they were mostly minor and none were life threatening. The Houston Chronicle, Dylan Baddour, February 23, 2015

3 hurt when school minibus overturns on icy North Texas road -- Two adults and a student were injured when a Mansfield ISD school bus was involved in a rollover accident in the Dallas area. The icy roads are being blamed for the incident. None of the injuries were life-threatening. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Associated Press, February 25, 2015

Hundreds of flights canceled over Dallas winter weather -- At DFW Airport, numerous flights were canceled due to winter weather that caused icy conditions on the planes and runways. One passenger reported that a flight that normally takes one hour, took nine hours. De-icing delays added onto the already long process of flying out of the airport. CBS News, Staff Writer, February 28, 2015

Recreation/Leisure/Athletics

Freeze Your Fanny: Weather expected to be ‘perfect’ for annual benefit bike ride, run -- Contrary to the name of the event, the weather was perfect for the annual event that raises money for the Special Olympics team in Gregg County. This was unlike previous years where the event was once canceled due to ice on the roads. The Longview News Journal, Christina Lane, February 5, 2015

Good weather boosts Community Fishing Day on Lake Waco -- The sunny and breezy weather brought out nearly 100 people to Waco’s Community Fishing Day. The wetlands that were fished in were created by a rise in water levels in Lake Waco over the past few years.The Waco Tribune, Don Bolding, February 7, 2015

Inclement Weather Cancels Finale of Arlington Invitational -- Inclement weather in the Arlington area canceled the final day of the Arlington Invitational which featured DePaul versus Texas Tech. The game is not expected to be rescheduled. DePaul University, February 21, 2015

Cancellations start as North Texas agencies, airports, schools, and electric companies bracing for icy weather -- In preparation for the winter storm, numerous places of business and schools closed down. Half of the flights from DFW Airport were canceled, and the Dallas Zoo and the AT&T Performing Arts Center closed down for the day. Dallas and Denton ISD canceled classes for the day while others such as UT-Dallas delayed for two hours.The Dallas Morning News, February 22, 2015

Sunday’s Cowtown Marathon Canceled, But Half-Marathon Still On, After Winter Blast -- The Cowtown Marathon and Ultra Marathon that are held in Fort Worth were canceled due to the winter weather. The Half-Marathon was not canceled, and organizers invited those that were part of the canceled marathons to run in theirs instead. Runners were urged to use “extreme caution” due to ice-covered parking lots.KERA, Eric Aasen, February 28, 2015

Texas Tech Baseball Cancels Saturday Doubleheader --Texas Tech’s game against Sacramento State was canceled due to the winter weather. Officials say that the field was unplayable due to the cold and damp conditions as well as ice.KLBK, Andrew Doak, February 28, 2015

Other Climate Impacts

Weather slows down search for missing Baytown teens -- The chilly temperatures and rainy conditions have caused the search for missing teens near Houston to be very difficult. Texas Equusearch stated that the weather conditions have made things very hard and that there has been only a little information gained after searching for nearly a week. KHOU, Rucks Russell, February 25, 2015

Rattlesnake disables area weather radar -- The KGRK radar was supposed to be receiving a software upgrade but instead it found itself being stuck down due to a rattlesnake attacking the technician.KXAN, Jim Spencer, February 10, 2015